We Remember

On Memorial Day we remember.   To prepare for this day we decorate graves and clean up monuments.  We fly the flag of our country.  We visit cemeteries, go to parades and have cookouts and get-togethers with family members and friends.  It's a day to get in touch with who we are!

A Memorial is something we can see and feel ... a tombstone, monument or other reminder.  It inspires feelings in us, of patriotism, love, commitment and compassion.  We walk away from it connected to what it helps us remember.  We walk away as people transformed and inspired to live our lives in a new and better way.

Many of us will visit the cemetery this Memorial Day.  May we also remember the stories of those who have gone before us.  May we pray for and honor the memory of the brave men and women who have protected and defended the freedoms we enjoy.  May we tell their stories to our own children and grandchildren. 

This year we'll remember those who have lost their lives in Afghanistan and around the world as we strive to defend ourselves from terrorists.  As we honor their memories, we can be challenged to do all we can to preserve the freedoms that so many have given their lives to gain and defend.

Eucharist is a memorial as well.  We remember God with us through all of time.  We remember Jesus and Jesus' disciples and what they've taught us about love, compassion and commitment.   We can receive the very Body and Blood of Christ, and go home in peace to love and serve the Lord.

May our remembering be more than remembering.  May we enter into the experience and life of those who have gone before us.  May we enter into the experience of God's commitment and love for all of us.  May we go home transformed and inspired to be the best we can be.  May we build a land of peace and freedom, where all people are cared for, respected and nurtured.   May we be inspired to build God's kingdom!

I hope you enjoy this page and the Memorial Day links we provide.  May God continue to bless you and those you love, and keep you safe!

Memorial Day History

Memorial Day and Veterans Day
from the U.S. Army

Arlington National Cemetery

Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall Page
search the database for names, too.

Flag Etiquette